The points of issue
First American edition, Simon & Schuster, New York, 1962; UK Methuen edition also 1962. The American edition is generally cited as the first.
Is this the true first?
US Simon & Schuster 1962 is the commonly cited true first; UK Methuen 1962 follows. A stray dealer date of 1961 reflects a copyright or inscription anomaly, not a separate prior edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue noted.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Down There on a Visit a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First American edition, Simon & Schuster, New York, 1962; UK Methuen edition also 1962. The American edition is generally cited as the first.
How do I tell the first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention and confirm the points above. US Simon & Schuster 1962 is the commonly cited true first; UK Methuen 1962 follows. A stray dealer date of 1961 reflects a copyright or inscription anomaly, not a separate prior edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue noted.
I have a first edition of Down There on a Visit — what should I do?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque, any condition, and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. To sell, see the author's collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.